About: Deen Abu Bakar

I didn’t grow up as a runner. In fact, I was a moderate asthma sufferer, and sport never came naturally to me. I played a bit of football, hockey in primary school, and rugby in secondary school, but as others grew bigger and stronger, I struggled to keep up and eventually stepped away from team sports.
Like many, my early adult years took a different path. One filled with partying, smoking, and drinking. It wasn’t the healthiest lifestyle, and when cancer impacted my family, everything changed. That moment became the turning point I needed.
In 2012, I started running. It began simply with 7½ minutes out from home and 7½ minutes back. Just a 15-minute cardio each day. But I stayed consistent, slowly building to 20 minutes, then 30. Not long after, I entered my first 5km race at the Auckland Domain and I was hooked.

My Running Journey

I set myself a goal to complete the Auckland Marathon, and in November 2013, I crossed that finish line. Since then, running has become a huge part of my life, with over 50 marathons completed to date.
I’ve also been an active marathon pacer since 2019, supporting runners at Rotorua, Taupō, and Auckland Marathons to achieve their goals. Something I find incredibly rewarding.
In recent years, I’ve stepped into the world of ultra and trail running. Highlights include:

  • WUU2K (2022)
  • First 100-miler at Tarawera (2023)
  • Riverhead Backyard Ultra (14 laps in 2024, 17 laps in 2025, 14 laps in 2026)
  • 24-hour Sri Chinmoy track events @ AUT Millenium (150km in 2024, 188km in 2025 which I came 3rd in men’s open category)

My 188km performance qualified me to represent New Zealand at the 24-Hour World Championships in Albi, France in 2025. My proudest achievement so far.

Coaching Philosophy

In 2024, I became a certified running coach through the UESCA Running Coach Programme.
Coaching, for me, is about more than just training plans. It’s about understanding each individual - their starting point, their challenges, and their goals.
I know what it’s like to start from zero. To struggle. To doubt yourself.

That’s why my approach is simple:

  • Build consistency first
  • Focus on sustainable progress
  • Support both physical and mental growth
  • Celebrate every milestone, big or small

Whether you're aiming for your first 5km, your first marathon, or pushing into ultra distances, I’m here to help you get there.

Lets Work Together

Running changed my life and I believe it can do the same for others.
If you’re ready to start your journey or take your running to the next level, I’d love to be part of it.